Which energy system is most active during short, high-intensity exercise like sprinting?

The ATP-CP energy system, also known as the phosphagen system, is the primary energy pathway utilized during short bursts of high-intensity exercise, such as sprinting. This system relies on adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine phosphate (CP) stored in the muscles to generate energy quickly without the need for oxygen, making it ideal for activities that last up to about 10 seconds.

During sprinting, the demand for energy is immediate and high; thus, the body utilizes the ATP-CP system to produce energy rapidly. Since this system does not require oxygen, it allows for maximal effort output in a short time frame. As the sprint continues past approximately 10 seconds, the body will start to rely more on anaerobic glycolysis and eventually aerobic pathways, but for the initial phase of high-intensity exercise, the ATP-CP system is predominant.

Other energy systems like the aerobic energy system, oxidative system, and lactic acid system are more suited for longer-duration activities or lower-intensity efforts. The aerobic energy system kicks in for endurance activities where oxygen uptake is sufficient, while the lactic acid system becomes relevant in the transition from sprinting to longer bouts of high-intensity exercise, producing energy through the